How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Michigan
We asked our expert Plumbing technicians here at Moore Mechanical this pressing question - how do you prevent frozen pipes and what do you do if they freeze?
To keep your pipes from freezing during Michigan’s harsh winters, ensure your pipes are insulated, maintain a trickle of water from faucets, and keep your heating system running efficiently. If your pipes freeze, turn off your water supply and gently thaw them using a space heater or similar method to prevent bursting.
Why Frozen Pipes Are a Big Problem in Michigan
Michigan’s long, cold winters are notorious for causing frozen pipes. When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands, creating pressure that can lead to cracks or bursts. A burst pipe can cause significant water damage and expensive repairs. Understanding how to prevent frozen pipes and how to handle them if they freeze is essential for Michigan homeowners.
Moore Mechanicals Checklist to Prevent Your Pipes from Freezing
1. Let Faucets Trickle
Flowing water is less likely to freeze. On extremely cold days and nights, let a small trickle of water run from faucets, especially those connected to exterior walls or in unheated areas. The moving water prevents freezing and reduces pressure buildup.
2. Keep Your Heating System in Top Shape
A well-maintained heating system is your first line of defense against frozen pipes. Schedule regular HVAC maintenance to ensure your system operates efficiently. Even in areas you don’t use often, we recommend you keep the thermostat set to at least 55°F to prevent freezing.
3. Insulate Your Homes Pipes
A well-maintained heating system is your first line of defense against frozen pipes in Michigan. Schedule regular HVAC maintenance to ensure your system operates efficiently. Even in areas you don’t use often, we recommend you keep the thermostat set to at least 55°F to prevent freezing.
4. Seal Drafts in Your Home
Cold air sneaking into your home can quickly drop the temperature around your pipes. Seal any gaps or cracks around windows, doors, skirting and where pipes enter your home to minimize drafts.
5. Open Cabinet Doors
In kitchens and bathrooms, open your vanity's cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes located against exterior walls. This simple step can make a big difference during the extreme cold temperatures we have been feeling in Michigan this week.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
1. Turn Off the Water Main
Before attempting to thaw a frozen pipe, shut off the water supply. This precaution prevents flooding in case the pipe bursts while thawing, which is highly likely if you do not turn off the main water supply.
2. Locate the Frozen Pipe(s)
Identify which pipe is frozen by checking for areas where water isn’t flowing or where pipes feel particularly cold. Pay especially close attention to exposed pipes in unheated areas.
3. Thaw the Pipe(s) Safely
Use one of these methods to gently thaw your pipes:
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Space Heater: Place a space heater near the frozen pipe, ensuring it is safe and not in contact with flammable materials.
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Hair Dryer: Direct warm air along the frozen section of the pipe, starting from the end nearest the faucet and working outward.
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Warm Towels: Wrap towels soaked in warm water around the pipe and replace them as they cool.
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Call a Professional: If you cannot do one of the things we listed above, the next best step is to reach out to a professional plumbing company like Moore Mechanical.
4. Check for Leaks After Your Pipe(s) Thaw
Once the pipe is thawed, carefully turn the water back on and monitor for any leaks or bursts. If you notice any damage, leaking or flooding call a professional plumber immediately.
You can contact Moore Mechanical at the bottom of this page, and we offer 24/7 emergency plumbing and heating services across 63% of Michigan.
When to Call a Professional
If you can’t locate the frozen pipe, if the pipe has burst, you cannot turn off the water, or if you’re unable to thaw the frozen pipe(s) safely, it’s time to call in the experts. Moore Mechanical’s experienced expert plumbers can quickly address frozen or burst pipes and help prevent future issues.
Stay Ahead of the Freeze
Winter in Michigan can be tough on your plumbing, but with a little preparation, you can keep your pipes safe and functional. Preventative measures like proper insulation and regular HVAC maintenance are far less expensive and stressful than dealing with frozen or burst pipes.
For more tips or immediate plumbing help, contact Moore Mechanical below today!
